- Water quality note: Perth has Australia's hardest tap water — high in dissolved calcium, magnesium, and total dissolved solids (TDS). This c...
- Most popular system: Under-sink carbon filter or reverse osmosis for drinking water
- Typical installed cost: Under-sink $350–$900 · RO $900–$1,800 · Whole house $1,000–$4,500
- Compliance: All plumbing connections require a licensed plumber and WaterMark certified products
Perth tap water quality
Perth has Australia's hardest tap water — high in dissolved calcium, magnesium, and total dissolved solids (TDS). This causes significant scale buildup on appliances, shower screens, and fixtures. An RO system or water softener is the most effective solution for hard water.
Typical costs in Perth (WA)
| System Type | Typical Installed Cost — Perth |
|---|---|
| Benchtop / gravity filter | $50–$400 (no installation) |
| Under-sink filter (single/twin) | $300–$900 |
| Reverse osmosis (7-stage) | $900–$1,800 |
| Whole house (2–3 stage) | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Whole house (with UV) | $1,500–$4,500 |
Areas we cover in Perth
Western Suburbs
Cottesloe, Claremont, Nedlands
Northern Suburbs
Joondalup, Hillarys, Sorrento
Southern Suburbs
Fremantle, Melville, Spearwood
Hills
Kalamunda, Mundaring
Getting quotes in Perth
Getting 2–3 quotes from different suppliers in Perth is the most important step before committing. Filter installation pricing varies between generalist plumbers and dedicated water filter specialists — and the quality of system specification advice varies even more.
- Confirm WaterMark certification on any product before purchase or installation
- Ask for an itemised quote — unit cost, installation, tap (if required), and ongoing cartridge costs separately
- Confirm the plumber holds a current licence for your state — check the relevant licensing board
- Ask specifically what the system removes — get a specification sheet, not just a brand name
For most Perth homeowners on town mains water, an under-sink carbon block filter or a 5–7 stage reverse osmosis system is the most popular choice for drinking and cooking water. Whole house systems are more common among homeowners with WA bore or tank water sources, or those specifically concerned about chlorine in shower water. See our filter types guide for help choosing.